by
A recent study conducted by Duke-NUS Medical School has shed light on the potential of an omega-3 supplement to prevent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study found that the omega-3 transporter protein Mfsd2a plays a crucial role in preventing the liver from storing excess fat. By delivering phospholipids, specifically lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), into liver cells, Mfsd2a acts as a protective mechanism against NAFLD.
NAFLD is commonly associated with excessive consumption of fatty foods, which can lead to inflammation, deterioration, and scarring of the liver. In Singapore, the rate of NAFLD is alarmingly high, affecting approximately 40% of adults compared to the global average of 27%.
Phospholipids, a type of fat essential for cell membrane formation, offer protection against the harmful effects of dietary fat. The researchers at Duke-NUS have been studying Mfsd2a for over a decade, focusing on its role in preventing NAFLD. Using preclinical and isolated samples of human liver, the team investigated the impact of altering Mfsd2a activity and lipid uptake.
The findings indicate that LPC lipids containing polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 fatty acid DHA, could serve as a long-term preventive measure against NAFLD. Dr. George Goh, a senior consultant at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) and one of the study’s collaborators, highlighted the potential of dietary LPC supplementation in protecting the liver from damage caused by a high-fat diet.
The researchers noted that there is a high demand for phospholipids in the liver, which increases when challenged with fatty foods. Since NAFLD takes years to develop and can progress to more severe conditions, such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis, supplements taken over an extended period could offer protection.
Professor David Silver, the senior author of the study and deputy director of the Cardiovascular & Metabolic Disorders Program at Duke-NUS, emphasized the importance of taking a proactive approach to maintaining liver health. Overconsumption of fatty foods can lead to various health problems, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and NAFLD. As the prevalence of NAFLD continues to rise, there is an urgent need for effective preventive measures.
The next step for the research team is to conduct rigorous clinical studies in collaboration with SGH to test the effectiveness of LPC supplementation in improving outcomes for patients with NAFLD. If successful, this research could significantly impact the millions of people worldwide who are affected by this condition.
In addition, the team plans to further investigate the molecular mechanisms that promote overall liver health through LPCs. This ongoing research could provide valuable insights into potential treatments and interventions for liver diseases in the future.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
